Shubhanshu Shukla awarded Ashoka Chakra
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Space technology (ISRO, missions)· Prelims·
Why in news
President Droupadi Murmu approved the award of the Ashoka Chakra to Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla for his role as the first Indian to visit the International Space Station (ISS).
Background
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is the second Indian to journey into space, following Rakesh Sharma who flew in 1984. The Ashoka Chakra is India's highest peacetime gallantry award.
Facts for Prelims
- PostShubhanshu Shukla: Group Captain and the first Indian to visit the International Space Station (ISS)
- FactRakesh Sharma: The first Indian to fly into space in 1984
- FactAshoka Chakra: India's highest peacetime gallantry award
- FactPresident Droupadi Murmu approved gallantry awards for 70 armed forces personnel
For Mains
Q. Discuss the significance of India's growing footprint in human spaceflight and its implications for India's strategic autonomy in the space sector.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Technological sovereignty: Reducing reliance on foreign launch vehicles for manned missions
- Geopolitical positioning: India's role in international space cooperation and ISS-related initiatives
Keywords: Gallantry awards · Human spaceflight · Strategic autonomy · Space exploration · Technological advancement
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